Sky watchers are eagerly anticipating the full pink moon, which reaches its peak on April 5, 2023, at 10:11 p.m. ET. While it is called the pink moon, it will shine in its characteristic silvery-gray color. The name reflects the blooming of Phlox subulata, known as moss pink, which flowers in early spring across eastern North America.
Viewing the Full Pink Moon
According to Noah Petro, chief of NASA’s planetary geology department, the full moon will be visible to observers in both the Northern and Southern hemispheres. It is considered fully illuminated for up to 12 hours before and after its peak. For optimal viewing, find a dark area with clear skies, away from city lights and obstructions like trees or buildings.
Indigenous Names for April’s Full Moon
April’s full moon also holds significance in various Indigenous cultures, where it is known by different names:
- “Kawohni” – Cherokee meaning “flower moon”
- “Kwiyamuyaw” – Hopi meaning “moon of windbreak”
- “Tabehatawi” – Assiniboine meaning “frog moon”
The Artemis II Launch Window
This month’s full pink moon coincides with the launch window for Artemis II, NASA’s first crewed mission to the moon in over 50 years. This mission, scheduled from April 1 to 6, 2023, includes four astronauts aiming to explore deep space and traverse beyond the moon’s far side. Each day during this period, there is a two-hour launch window.
Launch Timing Details
| Date | Launch Window Opens |
|---|---|
| April 5 | 1.28 hours before sunset |
| April 6 | 0.32 hours before sunset |
| Remaining Dates | Progressively later after sunset |
Looking Ahead: Meteor Showers
This April and May, sky watchers can also look forward to several meteor showers. The Lyrids, peaking on April 21-22, offers 10 to 20 meteors per hour, particularly visible in the Northern Hemisphere. The Eta Aquariids follows closely, peaking on May 5-6, with fewer than 10 meteors per hour due to the bright moonlight.
Upcoming Full Moons in May
May will also feature two full moons—on May 1 and May 31. The second full moon is often referred to as a “blue moon,” which occurs approximately every 30 months.
Nasa’s Artemis program marks a significant leap into deep space exploration, paving the way for an exciting future of lunar missions and beyond.
